Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze

There’s a nostalgia that Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze evokes reminding one of Sunday home dinners even in today’s settings.

The sweet and sour gooey glaze sizzling in the oven brings back memories of those warm afternoons when involvement in cooking especially preparing the food was the best.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill meatloaf – this one is full of meatloaf history and love.

A blend of hearty meat and sweet ketchup glaze it’s no wonder it’s a family favorite. It’s one of those dishes that warms the heart, quite literally, and brings everyone into the kitchen without any persuasion.

Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze

If you’re anything like me, you’ll appreciate how easy this Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze is to put together.

The sweet, tangy glaze combined with the tender, savory meat is a crowd-pleaser every single time.

Plus, it’s a versatile dish! You can serve it with mashed potatoes for a comforting meal or slice it thin for meatloaf sandwiches the next day.

And who doesn’t love a recipe that’s this simple to prepare yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen?

Already enjoying this Brown Sugar Meatloaf? You won’t want to miss our Slow Cooker Beef Pot Roast or Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry for more cozy family meals!

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this comforting Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze.

I always recommend using fresh, quality ingredients for the best flavor, but there’s room for flexibility if you need it!

For the Meatloaf

• Ground beef – I like to use 80/20 for the right balance of flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can swap for ground turkey or a leaner beef blend.
• Breadcrumbs – Regular or panko both work well. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs are great alternatives.
• Eggs – These help hold everything together. A flaxseed egg can work in a pinch if you’re avoiding eggs.
• Onion – Finely chopped to add some texture and sweetness.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic brings a nice kick of flavor.
• Milk – Helps keep the meatloaf moist. You can use dairy-free milk if needed.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, but don’t skimp!

For the Ketchup Glaze

• Ketchup – The base of the glaze. Use your favorite brand!
• Brown sugar – This is what gives the glaze that lovely sweetness. You could swap in honey or maple syrup if you’re avoiding refined sugar.
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth and a bit of tang.

This ingredient list is simple, but together they create the perfect balance of flavors.

It’s the kind of meal that’s just as satisfying for a weeknight dinner as it is for a special family gathering.

How to Make Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze

This Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze is easy to prepare and so worth the wait.

Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal on the table in no time.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s the perfect temperature to cook your meatloaf evenly without drying it out.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, salt, and pepper.

Use your hands (or a spoon if you prefer) to mix everything gently. You don’t want to overwork the meat, as that can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 3: Shape and Prepare the Meatloaf

Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a lined or greased baking sheet.

You can also use a loaf pan if you prefer a more structured shape, but I like the way it browns all around when it’s free-form.

Step 4: Make the Ketchup Glaze

In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. This glaze will give your meatloaf that signature sweet and tangy flavor. Brush about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf before baking.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, take it out and brush the rest of the glaze on top.

Pop it back into the oven and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Enjoyed this recipe? You can find the full printable version just below for your convenience!

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once done, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices in and makes slicing easier. Serve with mashed potatoes, veggies, or however your family loves it!

And there you have it—an easy, delicious Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Tips for Making the Best Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze

To keep your Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze moist, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Gentle mixing ensures a tender texture.

For even cooking, shape the meatloaf into a uniform thickness. This helps it bake more consistently.

When applying the glaze, don’t be shy! The glaze adds that irresistible sweet and tangy flavor, so be generous when brushing it on.

Lastly, allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing. It makes all the difference in keeping the juices inside.

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How can I make this Brown Sugar Meatloaf ahead of time?

If you’re short on time, you can absolutely make this meatloaf ahead of time! To do this, simply prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. Then, cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.

When you’re ready to cook, just add the glaze and bake as directed. Additionally, you can even freeze the meatloaf before baking for a future meal.

However, be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade dinner with minimal effort!

Can I use a different type of ground meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely switch up the ground beef in this recipe! Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter options.

If you’re looking for leaner beef, just keep in mind it might turn out a bit less juicy. A mix of ground beef and pork is another tasty option that adds extra flavor and moisture.

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What should I serve with this Brown Sugar Meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Also, You can use the leftovers to make some of the best meatloaf sandwiches. The sweet and tangy glaze is perfect with just about anything!

Serving Suggestions

This Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze shines when served with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of green beans. The balance of flavors makes for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

For a special touch, consider adding homemade biscuits or cornbread to the table. There’s just something about breaking bread together that makes family dinners feel extra cozy.

And don’t forget to pair your meal with a nice glass of iced tea or a light red wine, which can really complement the sweetness of the glaze.

This is a meal that brings everyone together, making it perfect for family gatherings!